Getting to Newcastle

Newcastle is Australias sixth largest city and it has excellent transport links including air, rail and bus services. The excellent Australian motorways also make it possible to self-drive to this city.

By car

Although the roads are in good condition and clearly sign-posted, the long distances between one city and another in this large continent can be deterring to some travellers. However, there are usually several scenic places to stop and enjoy a cup of coffee, and use the facilities before continuing the journey. Newcastle is situated just off the F3 freeway and the journey from Sydney takes about 2 hours. Newcastle can also be reached via the Pacific Highway.

By rail

The railway station at Newcastle is located at Parnell Place. Train services in Australia are extremely reliable, and most Australian cities and towns can be reached by train. There are several trains stopping at Newcastle daily from Sydney, a 2-hour 30-minute journey, while services also come in from Broadmeadow, Maitland, Dungog, Singleton, Muswellbrook, Scone and other towns.

Passengers from Melbourne, Adelaide and a few other major cities will need to switch trains at Sydney to get to Newcastle. However, it should be noted that the New South Wales authorities plan to stop train services to the city and reuse the land for further development.

By bus

Travelling by bus may not be a pleasant option for those who do not like long journeys. There are several bus network operators including Greyhound that connect Australian cities and towns. The buses are in good condition and usually quite comfortable, with well-trained experienced drivers. Passengers may have to change buses at Sydney to reach Newcastle.

By air

Newcastles airport, at Williamtown, is located about 30 minutes from the city by car. It only handles domestic flights including those by Virgin Blue, Qantas, Jetstar and Brindabella Airlines. There are daily flights from Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane and other major cities. The closest international airport is at Sydney, about a 30-minute flight from Newcastle.

The airport is thoroughly modern and equipped with the latest facilities; several restaurants and cafs, shops, duty-free shopping, car and tour agencies, a tourist information desk, nursing and baby-changing rooms and many other facilities.

There are three shuttle bus services operating from the airport to various hotels and holiday resorts. The services usually run every 15 minutes from 07:00 to 19:00. Port Stephens Coach service provides connection between the railway station and the airport. Taxi and limousine services are also available at the airport, and there are several car rental agencies located here too.

There are ample covered and uncovered berths for both long-term and short-term parking at the airport. The covered bays cannot be reserved and it is best to arrive at the airport early in the day if you plan to leave your car overnight at one of these bays. Passengers need to pay for their parking by using the automated machines in the airport prior to exiting the car park.

Taxis

It is most convenient to get a taxi from the airport to the city. Taxis can be pre-booked prior to your arrival. In the city, it is very easy to get a taxi, as there are several taxi operators. All taxis are metered. Should travellers wish to pre-book a taxi, they can do so via phone or the internet. Additionally, many hotels will be happy to make taxi reservations for their guests.